GIF vs WebP: what's the difference?
Short answer: Animated WebP is a modern replacement for GIF: smaller files and full colour, but not every app plays it.
| GIF | WebP | |
|---|---|---|
| Full name | Graphics Interchange Format | WebP (Google) |
| File extensions | .gif | .webp |
| MIME type | image/gif | image/webp |
| Introduced | 1987 | 2010 |
| Compression | Lossless (256 colours max) | Lossy and lossless |
| Transparency | 1-bit (on/off) | Yes (full alpha) |
| Animation | Yes | Yes |
| Typical file size | Medium | Very small |
| Best for | simple animations and reaction images | websites, because it is 25-35% smaller than JPG at the same quality |
| Compatibility | Universal | All modern browsers; some older desktop apps and upload forms still reject it |
File size
Animated WebP is typically 50-65% smaller than the same GIF.
Image quality
WebP supports 24-bit colour and alpha transparency; GIF is limited to 256 colours.
Transparency and animation
GIF: transparency 1-bit (on/off), animation yes. WebP: transparency yes (full alpha), animation yes.
Compatibility
GIF: Universal.
WebP: All modern browsers; some older desktop apps and upload forms still reject it.
When to use GIF
- Chats, email and forums that don't play WebP
- Maximum compatibility
When to use WebP
- Animations on your own website
- Colourful animations
Convert between GIF and WebP
Frequently asked questions
Is GIF better than WebP?
Animated WebP is a modern replacement for GIF: smaller files and full colour, but not every app plays it.
Which is smaller, GIF or WebP?
Animated WebP is typically 50-65% smaller than the same GIF.
Which has better quality, GIF or WebP?
WebP supports 24-bit colour and alpha transparency; GIF is limited to 256 colours.
How do I convert GIF to WebP?
Open the free GIF to WebP converter, add your files and download the results. It runs in your browser, so nothing is uploaded.